Adventures of a Disney Dad: A Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Trip Planning Podcast

Epic updates, complicated Disney trips and listener questions!

Welcome back! Today, we dive into a whirlwind week of theme park updates, from water tests at Disney to Universal's Epic announcements.
Key Topics Covered
Tiana's Bayou Adventure Update: Sharing our excitement over the first signs of water at Disney's upcoming attraction and what it symbolizes for fans. [00:00:51]
Universal's Epic Universe Announcements: We break down Universal Orlando's latest reveals, including attractions like Super Nintendo World and the Dark Universe, discussing how they compare to Disney's immersive experiences. [00:01:18]
Celebrity Sightings: Reflections on NFL stars visiting Disney, including Jason Kelce's flip-flop fashion statement, and speculating about a Super Bowl MVP parade's potential impact on the parks. [00:07:11]
The Planning Dilemma: Addressing the complexities of planning a Disney trip in today's environment and the underrated value of using a Disney travel agent. [00:15:21]
Listener Questions Addressed
Best Resort for Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival: Insights into staying at Epcot-area resorts for easy festival access. [00:23:27]
Best Place to Get Coffee at Walt Disney World: Discussing options ranging from resort offerings to park favorites. [00:25:30]
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Locations: Clarifying current options for this magical transformation experience. [00:30:56]
Beignet Hype: Are Disney's beignets worth the fuss? We share our takes. [00:33:00]
Winging a Disney Trip: The risks and possible rewards of minimal planning for a Disney vacation. [00:36:00]
Watching the Super Bowl at Disney: Our recommendations for the best spots to catch the big game. [00:42:00]
Fireworks Dessert Party Value: Evaluating if the experience justifies the cost, especially for families with young children. [00:46:16]
2025 Disney Package Releases: When to expect the opening of bookings for 2025 Disney trips. [00:50:05]
Don't miss out on making your next theme park visit truly magical. Visit www.adventuresofadisneydad.com for more insights and to get a free, no-obligation quote for your upcoming Disney or Universal vacation. Remember, a little planning can lead to a lot of magic!

Essential Disney Movies to Watch Before Your Walt Disney World Vacation and Listener Questions!

In this episode, we dive into the world of movies and their impact on your Disney vacation experience. We provide our ranks of which Disney movies are a must watch before your next Walt Disney World family vacation!
 
Key Topics Covered:
The emotional closure of Country Bears at Disney World and its impact on Frontierland.
Anticipation and updates on Tiana's Bayou Adventure.
In-depth discussion on must-watch movies for families planning a Disney vacation. We provide a draft-style list of top 10 movies and series, including Toy Story, Frozen, Star Wars, The Lion King, Peter Pan, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Tangled, Ratatouille, and The Princess and the Frog.
Honorable mentions for movies like Avatar, Tron, Moana, and more, along with their significance in the parks.
Tips on maximizing ride experiences with and without Genie Plus.
Dining reservation policies at Disney World and the etiquette for tipping at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Harmony Barbershop.
Discussion Topics:
[00:01:00] Personal updates from the hosts and a brief overview of the episode's theme.
[00:02:00] Discussion on the closure of Country Bears at Walt Disney World.
[00:03:00] Insights into the future of Country Bears in Frontierland.
[00:04:00] Expectations and progress on Tiana's Bayou Adventure.
[00:05:00] Overview of the main topic: Movies to prioritize before a Walt Disney World family vacation.
[00:06:00] In-depth analysis of essential family movies, starting with Toy Story.
[00:08:00] Exploration of Frozen and its relevance to Disney experiences.
[00:10:00] Insights into The Lion King's impact on a Disney visit.
[00:12:00] Discussion on Star Wars and its influence in the parks.
[00:14:00] Considerations for other key movies like Peter Pan, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Tangled, Ratatouille, and The Princess and the Frog.
[00:25:00] Honorable mentions of other significant movies like Avatar, Tron, Moana, etc.
[00:34:00] Listener questions: Addressing the number of rides achievable with and without Genie Plus.
[00:37:00] Guidance on dining reservation policies and tipping etiquette at Disney World.
[00:42:00] Special mention and well-wishes to a former guest, Hallie Jones.
[00:43:00] Closing remarks and a call to action for listeners.
Don't forget to visit www.adventuresofadisneydad.com for a free, no-obligation quote and make your Disney vacation dreams come true! Share your thoughts with us on social media, and if you're loving the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe. Join us next week for more Disney adventures!

Listener Questions: Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Disney Crowd Calendars and More!

Join Matt and Chip in Episode 17 of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, where they share their experiences and tips navigating Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
 
In this episode, they answer listener questions and cover the latest updates from Disney and Universal.
 
They discuss the exciting lineup of the Garden Rocks Concert Series at Epcot's Flower and Garden Festival, share personal anecdotes about meeting band members from Simple Plan, and offer valuable tips for making the most out of concert experiences in theme parks.
 
Key Topics Covered:
The episode covers a range of topics including Universal's Mardi Gras Concert Series lineup, the potential of a new summer festival at EPCOT, Disney's after-hours events, and the closure of Big River Grill.
 
The duo also discusses Disney Board Member Nelson Peltz's critical comments on park development and responds to listener questions. These include planning tips for first-time visits to Universal Orlando, insights into the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique experiences for boys and girls, and the usefulness of crowd calendars for Disney trips.
 
Matt and Chip also talk about their steps in planning a Disney vacation, choosing which parks to visit during short Disney vacations with kids, and compare staying at Port Orleans Riverside versus Coronado Springs.
 
Time Stamps:
 
Disney's Garden Rocks Concert Series: 00:01:00
Epcot Festival Insights: 00:02:15
Tips for Concerts at Disney: 00:02:33
Epcot Festival Duration Changes: 00:02:51
New Summer Festival Speculation: 00:03:36
Universal Mardi Gras Lineup: 00:04:00
Mardi Gras Concert Experiences: 00:05:10
Disney After Hours Events: 00:07:44
Big River Grill Closure: 00:08:18
Nelson Peltz's Comments: 00:08:43
Tips for Universal First-Timers: 00:16:00
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Experience: 00:20:02
Crowd Calendars for Disney: 00:29:00
Planning a Disney Vacation: 00:34:06
Choosing Parks for Short Visits: 00:39:59
Port Orleans Riverside vs. Coronado Springs: 00:45:22
 
Don't forget to visit www.adventuresofadisneydad.com for more insights, tips, and a free, no-obligation quote for your next magical vacation. Your journey to a Disney or Universal adventure starts here!
 
Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing and leaving us a review!

Summer House on the Lake vs. Gideon's Bakehouse, Genie+ Tips, Saratoga Springs Resort and More!

Find Us: Catch all our episodes and more exciting content on www.adventuresofadisneydad.com and follow us for updates and join our growing community of Disney and Universal Studios fans!
If you're looking to plan the perfect Disney vacation, reach out for a free, no-obligation quote at https://www.themagicforless.com/about-us/meet-our-agents/matt-brandabur/
Welcome to Episode 16 of The Adventures of a Disney Dad Podcast where hosts Matt and Chip delve into the latest happenings at Disney World and Universal Studios. In this episode, they share personal updates, discuss Disney World news, review dining experiences, and offer practical tips for park-goers.
 
Key Highlights
Personal Update: Chip introduces his new baby, Lennon Ann, and discusses life with five children.
Disney World News: The hosts discuss the return of After Hours events at various parks, highlights from the Festival of the Arts, and insights into the Disney Dining Plans.
Dining Reviews: Matt and Chip share their experiences at Disney Springs, specifically at Summer House on the Lake and Gideon's Bakehouse.
Universal Studios Visit: Reflections on visiting Universal Studios with children and the value of the Express Pass.
Use of Genie Plus: They talk about strategies and effectiveness of using Genie Plus in the parks.
Final Thoughts: Discussions on weather, crowd levels in January, and a positive review of their stay at Saratoga Springs Resort.
[00:00:00-00:03:08] Introduction and personal updates from Chip about his new baby.
[00:03:09-00:06:24] Discussion on the return of After Hours events at Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom.
[00:06:25-00:07:24] Highlights from the Festival of the Arts, including the popular Figment popcorn bucket.
[00:07:25-00:12:29] Insights into Disney Dining Plans and the usefulness of their new calculator tool.
[00:12:30-00:17:21] Reviews of dining experiences at Disney Springs: Summer House on the Lake and Gideon's Bakehouse.
[00:17:22-00:24:36] Reflections on visiting Universal Studios with kids and the value of the Express Pass.
[00:24:37-00:31:00] Discussion on the effectiveness and strategy of using Genie Plus in the parks.
[00:31:01-00:38:37] Final thoughts on weather, crowd levels in January, and review of their stay at Saratoga Springs Resort.
[00:38:38-00:48:11] Closing remarks, social media plugs, and encouragement for listeners to reach out for travel planning assistance.

10 Must-Dos for Your Next Disney World Vacation

Introduction: Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast! In this episode, we explore topics ranging from the ideal age for a child's first Disney World visit to 10 must-dos for your next vacation!
Key Highlights:
Best Age for Disney World: Engaging discussion on the ideal age for a child's first visit to Disney World, integrating Instagram poll results.
Disney News: Updates on Tiana's Bayou Adventure and potential Encanto-themed area in Animal Kingdom, plus a new Disney X-Files version.
New Elephant at Animal Kingdom: Introduction of baby elephant Cora and details about the 'Caring for Giants' tour.
Epcot Festival Updates: Information on dates and features of the International Festival of the Arts and the Flower and Garden Festival.
Disney Cruise Line Promotion: Overview of a new deposit discount offer. Vacation Activity Prioritization: Tips for a balanced and enjoyable Disney World experience, focusing on dining, relaxation, and transportation.
Why You Should Listen: If you're a Disney enthusiast or planning your next Disney trip, this episode is packed with valuable tips, personal experiences, and a deep dive into the world of Disney parks.
Find Us: Catch all our episodes and more exciting content on www.adventuresofadisneydad.com and follow us for updates and join our growing community of Disney and Universal Studios fans!
If you're looking to plan the perfect Disney vacation, reach out for a free, no-obligation quote at https://www.themagicforless.com/about...
Timestamps:
02:08-05:00: News segment covering Tiana's Bayou Adventure and the possibility of an Encanto-themed area in Animal Kingdom, plus a new Disney version of the X-Files.
05:00-06:44: Insights on baby elephant Cora at Animal Kingdom and the 'Caring for Giants' tour.
06:44-08:04: Information on Epcot festivals, International Festival of the Arts, and Flower and Garden Festival.
08:04-08:52: Disney Cruise Line promotion discussion.
08:52-17:25: Main discussion on the best age for visiting Disney World, considering different age groups and park attractions.
17:25-33:22: Tips for prioritizing vacation activities, including importance of photos, relaxing during the trip, utilizing Disney transportation, and enjoying character meals.

Epcot for Beginners w/ Matt Richardson

Introduction: Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast! In this exciting episode, we sit down with Matt Richardson, a well-known TikTok and Instagram Disney and travel content creator. Matt shares his unique experiences with Disney parks and more! Join as the group discusses tips for beginner's headed to EPCOT. 
Key Highlights:
Matt Richardson's Background: Explore Matt's journey into becoming a Disney content creator, including his passion for Disney parks and how it evolved into his current role.
Solo Disney Trips: Gain insights from Matt's solo Disney experiences, including tips and unique aspects that make solo trips special.
Run Disney Races: Delve into Matt's participation in Run Disney events, offering advice for beginners and sharing his personal highlights.
Tokyo and Shanghai Disney: Discover the unique aspects of international Disney parks through Matt's experiences, highlighting cultural differences and must-see attractions.
Epcot Planning for Newcomers: Comprehensive advice for first-time visitors to Epcot, focusing on attractions, dining options, and hidden gems.
Disney Food and Snack Content: Matt shares his favorite food and snack choices at Walt Disney World, perfect for foodies planning their visit.
Listener Questions: Engaging Q&A session where Matt answers queries related to Disney vacation planning, offering practical tips and suggestions.
Overrated/Underrated Segment: Matt weighs in on Disney resorts, rides, and food items, giving his take on what's overrated or underrated.
Mount Rushmore of Disney: Matt lists his top four favorite Disney rides, restaurants, or resorts, providing personal insights and experiences.
Why You Should Listen: If you're a Disney enthusiast or planning your next Disney trip, this episode is packed with valuable tips, personal experiences, and a deep dive into the world of Disney parks. Join us as Matt Richardson shares his journey and provides insider knowledge that every Disney fan will appreciate.
Find Us: Catch all our episodes and more exciting content on www.adventuresofadisneydad.com and follow us for updates and join our growing community of Disney and Universal Studios fans!
Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:25 - Matt's Start in Disney Content Creation
03:15 - Working and Spending Time at Disney Parks
04:10 - Utilizing Owner's Locker and Travel Tips
05:21 - Exploring Airport Lounges and Travel Hacks
06:33 - Discovering Unique Experiences in Mundane Places
07:26 - Personal Milestones and Life Updates
07:47 - Solo Disney Trips and Family Vacations
09:01 - Solo Travel Tips and Experiences
10:59 - Insights on run Disney Races
12:46 - Content Creation Tips and Personal Approach
14:36 - Planning Disney Content and Creative Process
17:41 - Favorite and Memorable Videos
19:10 - Diversity of Content Beyond Disney
20:10 - Platform Preferences and Content Strategy
23:00 - Future Goals as a Content Creator
24:35 - Exploring International Disney Parks
28:00 - Epcot Attractions and Favorites
30:58 - Quick Service Food Recommendations
32:19 - Character Meet Experiences at Epcot
33:30 - Ranking Epcot's Festivals
35:53 - Listener Questions: Future Disney Plans and run Disney Races
37:59 - Best run Disney Race for Beginners

Creating Magic: The Journey of Disney-Inspired Kids’ Brand Taylor Joelle

Welcome to another episode of the Adventures of a Disney Dad podcast, where we dive into the magical world of Disney-inspired children's fashion with Jenny Moyer, the founder of Taylor Joelle. Join us as we explore the creative journey behind this beloved brand, known for its sensory-friendly and imaginative clothing for kids, including Disney and Harry Potter-themed attire.
Key Highlights:
Discover the origins of Taylor Joelle, starting from crib bedding to the evolution into a children’s fashion brand.
Learn about the challenges and triumphs of building a family business, as shared by Jenny.
Find out how Jenny’s experiences as a mom influenced the designs and functionality of Taylor Joelle’s clothing line.
Dive into the process of obtaining the Harry Potter license and the potential future with Disney licensing.
Gain insights into the balance between entrepreneurship and family life, as Jenny shares her personal experiences.
Get a sneak peek into the creative process behind designing dresses that are both comfortable for play and stylish for outings.
Why You Should Listen: This episode isn’t just for Disney enthusiasts; it’s a great story of entrepreneurship, family, and the pursuit of a dream. Jenny’s journey with Taylor Joelle highlights the intersection of creativity, business savvy, and the joy that Disney brings to families around the world.
Find Us: Tune in to Adventures of a Disney Dad for more stories and insights. Follow us on our social media platforms and subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on all things Disney and Universal!
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction and Welcome
05:22 - The Beginning of Taylor Joelle
12:40 - Challenges in the Business Journey
18:55 - Obtaining the Harry Potter License
24:20 - Balancing Entrepreneurship and Family
30:10 - Design Process and Inspiration
35:45 - Future Plans for Taylor Joelle
41:00 - Community Engagement and Marketing Strategies
46:15 - Personal Stories and Disney Experiences
52:30 - Closing Thoughts and GoodbyesIf you're looking to plan the perfect Disney vacation, reach out for a free, no obligation quote at https://www.themagicforless.com/about-us/meet-our-agents/matt-brandabur/

Beginner’s Guide to Disney’s Hilton Head Resort

Introduction: Welcome to a special episode of "The Adventures of a Disney Dad" podcast. In this episode, we dive into the enchanting world of Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort. If you're new to Disney or just planning your first trip to Hilton Head, this episode is tailored just for you!
 
Get a quote: https://www.themagicforless.com/about-us/meet-our-agents/matt-brandabur/
Follow on Social:
            @adventuresofadisneydad
            @robinsondadlife
            @thedisneyworlddad
 
Key Highlights:
Uncover the unique charm of Disney's Hilton Head Resort, a perfect blend of relaxation and Disney magic.
Learn about the best times to visit and how to make the most of your trip, whether it's your first or fiftieth time.
Insider tips on dining options at the resort, local culinary gems, and must-try dishes.
Anecdotes and personal experiences from our special guest, Justin, sharing his journey as a Disney dad and his adventures at Hilton Head.
Engaging discussions about underrated and overrated Disney resorts, rides, and food items, offering a new perspective to your Disney experience.
 
Why Listen: Whether you're a seasoned Disney enthusiast or just starting out, this episode offers a fresh and insightful look into the world of Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort. From practical tips to heartwarming stories, join us for an episode that's both informative and inspiring.
 
Time Stamps:
[00:00:00] Introduction and Welcoming JustinMatt and Chip introduce themselves and the podcast, mentioning Chip's upcoming state championship game.
[00:01:04] Meet Justin: The Disney World DadJustin, an Instagram content creator focusing on Disney themes, discusses his ongoing vacation at Disney's Hilton Head Resort.
[00:02:14] Justin’s Journey into Disney Content CreationJustin shares his background, including how a honeymoon suggestion led him to become a Disney enthusiast and content creator.
[00:08:00] Family Dynamics in Disney VisitsJustin talks about the frequency of his Disney visits and how his family's dynamics influence their vacation experiences.
[00:10:30] Dining Experiences at Disney Resorts: Quick Service FocusedThe discussion shifts to dining experiences at Disney resorts, emphasizing the quick service options available.
[00:13:00] Disney Company News and Sequel StrategiesA discussion on recent Disney company news, including Bob Iger’s comments on sequels and new story focuses.
[00:19:30] Disney Parks Updates: New Attractions and DevelopmentsUpdates on new attractions and developments in Disney parks, like the Dreamer statue in Epcot.
[00:25:30] The Allure of Disney’s Hilton Head Island ResortDetailed insights into Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort, its attractions, and unique aspects.
[00:33:30] Dining at Hilton Head: Local Restaurant RecommendationsJustin and Chip share their favorite local dining spots around Hilton Head, including insights into family-friendly options.
[00:42:30] Hilton Head Island Resort’s Accommodations and ActivitiesExploring accommodation types at Hilton Head Resort and engaging activities for families.
[00:47:30] Listener Questions: Best Times to Visit Hilton HeadAddressing listener queries about the best times to visit Hilton Head Island Resort.
[00:52:30] Fun Segment: Overrated or Underrated Disney TopicsEngaging in a light-hearted debate about various Disney-related topics, like resorts, rides, and food items.
 
Find Us: Don't miss out on any of our adventures! Follow us at @adventuresofadisneydad for regular updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more Disney magic. Join our growing community of Disney fans and share your own stories and experiences.
 
Get ready to embark on a magical journey with Adventures of a Disney Dad. Listen, learn, and be inspired! 🎧✨
 

Disney Planning Made Easy: A Beginner’s Day at Hollywood Studios!

Join the Dad’s for a comprehensive beginner's guide to mastering Disney's Hollywood Studios in a day. Joined by Disney Content Creator, Hallie Jones (@itallstartedwithamouse138), this episode is an essential listen for anyone planning their Disney adventure.
Key Highlights:
Chip's Massillon Tigers Update
Hallie Jones’ Heartfelt Story: Discover Hallie's touching backstory, how a trip to Disney reignited joy in her life after personal tragedy, and her rise on Instagram with her helpful Disney content.
Maximizing Hollywood Studios: Uncover expert tips for crafting the perfect one-day itinerary at Hollywood Studios. From utilizing Genie+ effectively to navigating the park's layout for an optimal experience, this segment ensures your visit is nothing short of magical. From Characters to Dining, the group covers it all!
Listener Interactions
Overrated or Underrated
Why You Should Listen: Whether you're a Disney rookie or a park-hopping pro, this episode is packed with invaluable advice that promises to elevate your Hollywood Studios day trip. The group’s genuine love for Disney shines through as they offer up-to-date, practical advice mixed with entertaining personal anecdotes.
Where to Find Us: For a sprinkle of Disney magic in your daily life, follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Tiktok (@adventuresofadisneydad) and visit our website (adventuresofdisneydad.com).
Chip: @robinsondadlife
Hallie: @itallstartedwithamouse138
If you're looking to plan the perfect Disney vacation, reach out for a free, no obligation quote at https://www.themagicforless.com/about-us/meet-our-agents/matt-brandabur/
 

Secrets to Success: Planning Disney Trips with Grandparents

Join host Matt and co-host Chip Robinson in this insightful episode as they delve into the intricacies of planning Disney vacations for families spanning multiple generations. Special guests Audie and Tim Lawley, experienced travel agents with Magic for Less Travel, share their wealth of knowledge on crafting unforgettable Disney experiences for every family member.
Key Highlights:
Exploring Multi-Generational Travel: Dive into discussions about the unique aspects and benefits of traveling to Disney with extended family, including grandparents and children of various ages.
Strategies for Dining with Large Groups: Learn how to navigate the challenges of making dining reservations for large, multi-generational parties at Disney, including tips for booking and accommodating diverse preferences and needs.
Accommodation Choices for Big Families: Explore recommendations for selecting Disney resorts suitable for large families, including considerations for room types, location preferences, and maximizing comfort for all ages.
Disney Park Strategies for All Ages: Gain insights on how to plan park visits that cater to both the young and the young at heart, including managing different energy levels, interests, and mobility considerations.
Maximizing Disney Experiences: Discover how to make the most of Disney’s offerings, from FastPass and Genie+ tips to ensuring every family member, from toddlers to seniors, enjoys the magic of Disney to the fullest.
Navigating Disney Transportation: Practical advice on arranging convenient and comfortable transportation for large groups, both from the airport to Disney resorts and within the Disney parks.
Disney News Updates: Stay informed with the latest happenings at Disney and Universal parks, including new events, changes in policies, and other relevant news that could impact your trip planning.
Why You Should Listen: This episode is an essential guide for anyone planning a Disney trip with a diverse family group. Packed with expert advice, tips, and strategies, it's designed to help you create a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable Disney vacation for family members of all ages.
Connect with Us: Follow us on social media for ongoing Disney tips and updates, and share your own Disney adventures with our community!